The Simplex Method of Linear Programming
Most real-world linear programming problems have more than two variables and thus are too complex for graphical solution. A procedure called the simplex method may be used to find the optimal solution to multivariable problems. The simplex method is actually an algorithm (or a set of instructions) with which we examine corner points in a methodical fashion until we arrive at the best solution—highest profit or lowest cost. Computer programs and spreadsheets are available to handle the simplex calculations for you. But you need to know what is involved behind the scenes in order to best understand their valuable outputs